Gifted Identification

Multiple criteria are used in order to identify students as gifted in Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools. Students have the opportunity to identify as​ Academically Gifted in both Reading and Math (AG), Academically Gifted Math Only (AM), Academically Gifted Reading Only (AR), Academically Intellectually Gifted (AI),  or Intellectually Gifted (IG). You can read more about each of these identification labels here.

Students accumulate points on the 2022-2025 CMS TD Identification Rubric through aptitude and achievement assessments, as well as informal assessments. Formal assessments include the CogAT (Cognitive Abilities Test), Measures of Academic Progress (MAP), and the ITBS (Iowa Tests of Basic Skills). Informal assessments include the GRS (Gifted Rating Scales) and the CMS Portfolio Assessment. 2nd Grade students will be screened for potential identification:

2nd Grade CogAT Testing at PSE – September 11, 12 & 13, 2024

All second grade students enrolled in CMS are screened for the CMS Talent Development Program each fall. Students who did not certify as second graders may be tested in third through fifth grades if there is sufficient evidence to support assessment. These assessments for the upper grades typically occur in winter (December-January).

For additional information regarding gifted identification in our district, please visit the CMS Advanced Studies website.